No. 10 March 08 The Atlanta Jewish Times

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Day one at Aipac PAGE 6

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on-ice action in israel

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A Real-Life Manhunt PAGE 21

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MARCH 8 ▪ 2013

AJT

israel

Israeli Pride

GOOD NEWS MADE IN THE JEWISH STATE THIS PAST WEEK

NEW BIRTHRIGHT TRIP DEBUTS. “Israel Give & Tech” is a brand new TaglitBirthright Israel trip launched in conjunction with Israel Free Spirit. The trip is designed for people interested in experiencing how Israel uses its technological innovation for tikkun olam (“repairing the world”). The inaugural “Give & Tech” will depart from New York in early July.

EX-TURKISH FINANCE MINISTER TREATED IN ISRAEL. Kemal Unakitan spent nearly two-and-a-half months at the International Center for Cell Therapy & Cancer Immunotherapy in Tel Aviv.

He received groundbreaking stem cell treatment to wean him off dialysis and avoid a kidney transplant.

WORLD-RECORD HARLEM SHAKE GOES DOWN IN TEL AVIV. Tel Aviv became home to the largest “Harlem Shake” dance video yet, featuring some 70,000 people in front of the Tel Aviv Museum.

The video was made during a pre-Purim street party.

lion over the next two to three years in Israeli companies that will participate in the Gateway USA: Agritech program. A delegation from the Virginia Israel Advisory Board (VIAB) recently visited Israel to interview potential companies.

VIRGINIA INVESTS IN ISRAELI AGROTECHNOLOGY. The state of Virginia estimates that it will invest up to $10 mil-

PURIM IS FOR EVERYONE. The Institute for the Advancement of the Deaf and the national-religious rabbinic asso-

ciation Tzohar held the first-ever sign language reading of the megillah (Book of Esther) for the deaf and hard of hearing. More than 600 people attended the reading at the Tel Aviv International Synagogue.

This list courtesy Michael Ordman and verygoodnewsisrael.blogspot.com.

ROAD WILL BE SAFER – FOR DRIVERS AND ANIMALS. A dangerous section of Route 1 between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem is being improved with an eco-friendly bridge – indistinguishable from the surrounding forests – which will allow animals to cross the highway in safety.

ISRAEL WILL TRAIN NEW ASTRONAUT. The eighth-annual International Ilan Ramon Space Conference in Herzliya attracted the heads of 14 space agencies around the world. Israel announced that it planned to train another astronaut, and the nation was invited to join the UN Committee on Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (COPUOS).

RITA ANNOUNCED AS UN GUEST. Iranian-born Israeli diva Rita will perform “Tunes for Peace” at the UN General Assembly Hall on March 5 in a first-ofits-kind event organized by the Israeli Mission. Rita will sing in Hebrew, English and Farsi in front of UN chief Ban Ki-Moon, diplomats and Iranian community leaders.

WAZE APP NAMED WORLD’S BEST. Israel’s mobile navigation and traffic community application, Waze, won the “Best Overall Mobile App” prize at the 18th Annual Global Mobile Awards at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona.

MARCH 8 ▪ 2013

NEW MISS ISRAEL MAKES HISTORY. Yityish Titi Aynaw, a 21-year-old from Netanya, was chosen to be Israel’s representative in the Miss World 2013 competition. She is the first Ethiopianborn contestant to win the title of Miss Israel.

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AJT

news

MJCCA Hosts Second Pickleball Tournament

Atlanta Teens Attend Annual BBYO Convention

PLAYERS COME FROM ACROSS GEORGIA

JAKE COOK ELECTED GRAND ALEPH MOREH

STAFF REPORT

STAFF REPORT

O

F

n March 3, the MJCCA Mature Adults hosted their second Pickleball Tournament.

Sid Cojac, 99 – known as the MJCCA’s “Mayor of Main Street” – was among the headliners competing.

As the MJCCA is one of the only Pickleball venues in Georgia, the tournament attracted more than 35 players from all over the state – as far as Chateau Elan, Lake Oconee and Canton – and ranging in age from 16 to 99.

Pickleball has been called “one of the fastest growing sports in America” by ESPN Radio. Played on a badminton court with the net lowered to 34 inches at the center – as defined by the USA Pickleball Association – the game is played with a perforated plastic baseball (similar to a whiffle ball) and a wood or composite paddle.

Fans say the sports is easy for beginners to learn, but can develop into a fastpaced, competitive contest for experienced players.

Editor’s note: For more information on Pickleball at the MJCCA, contact Shanna Levy at (678) 812-4079.

ifty-four teens from Atlanta recently attended BBYO, Inc.’s annual International Convention (IC).

This year, IC was held in Washington, D.C. and featured a welcome video message from President Barack Obama to the audience of more than 2,000 Jewish teen leaders. Participants included heads of AZA and BBG – BBYO’s renowned leadership platform – as well as high school fraternities and sororities, educators, thought leaders, volunteers and philanthropists from 18 countries.

For the Atlanta community, Sunday’s elections of the 2013-2014 AZA and BBG International Boards were a highlight. I-Board Elect teen Jake Cook was elected to the position of Grand Aleph Moreh, overseeing recruitment, retention and education for AZA.

Jake is a member of Hazakah AZA #2458 and a junior at Walton High School. He will be a part of a board responsible for planning international programming and setting the course for AZA and BBG in the coming year.

Editor’s note: For more on MJCCA’s BBYO, call (678) 812-3970.

Correction:

I

MARCH 8 ▪ 2013

n the March 1 issue of the AJT, it was incorrectly reported that Camp Barney Medintz’s 50th Anniversary Celebration will be entitled “Our Summer Place,” whereas that phrase is used as a nickname for the camp itself. Also, event co-chair Gail Goldstein Heyman’s name was misspelled. We apologize for any confusion.

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AJT

news

How to Narrow the Gap

BRINGING ISRAELI AND AMERICAN JEWRY CLOSER TOGETHER

BY Arkady Mamaysky

For the Atlanta Jewish Times

T

wo major and roughly equalsized branches of the Jewish people live in Israel and the United States, respectively.

Unfortunately, we are separated by distance and diverging more and more by culture; in other words, we are gradually becoming, or have already become, two different people.

Some attributes that unite us (beyond religion) are our common history, common ancestry, common ethnicity, common historical homeland, common language, common culture and common traditions. Still, the divergence is concerning, especially for a people as small in numbers as our own – around 14 million – in a world that is big and often hostile, particularly to the Jewish people.

importantly, when Americans do visit Israel, they should have access to programs that teach Israeli history, culture and Hebrew and generally provide exposure to the Israeli people.

Such programs will benefit American Jewry and will encourage close connections between American and Israeli Jews which may not develop on shorter and more expensive tourist visits. What’s more, though, is that Israelis will benefit from these

programs too.

They will learn about American culture (including our tradition of politeness) and the religious pluralism of American Jewry, improve their knowledge of English and receive invaluable moral – and perhaps financial – support.

Moreover, spending a vacation (or part of it) in Israel will not prevent Americans from visiting other places. To give just one example, flying to Israel on Air France makes it pos-

sible to stop in Paris for some time before continuing to Israel.

Some of the ideas above might not be practical, but hopefully others are. As a Jewish people, we must continue this conversation, so that when we say “next year in Jerusalem,” we do not really mean “next year in Florida.”

Editor’s note: To contact the author, please email Arkady437@gmail.com.

To ensure that American and Israeli Jews remain one people, we as Americans, must strengthen our bond with Israel, and physical presence in Israel is the best way to do this. While a large aliyah is unlikely at the present time, I believe American Jews should spend more time in Israel.

Sadly, a surprisingly large percentage of American Jews have never even visited Israel, and some don’t care about Israel at all. As for those who do, an occasional lecture, editorial or contribution is not enough; more can and must be done.

Meanwhile, single congregations and individuals in the American Jewish community might organize the study of Hebrew, preferably through a community-wide ulpan; arrange for a Hebrew conversational group conducted by Israeli members of the community; form a group to discuss Israeli news; and have presentations on Israeli and Jewish history.

Most of my ideas for improving the connection between U.S. and Israeli Jewry directly or indirectly lead to Americans visiting the Jewish State for extended periods. But more

MARCH 8 ▪ 2013

Large Jewish organizations might encourage American retirees to spend winters in Israel instead of Florida; organize reasonably-priced vacation camps in Israel for adults, families and children; and promote children’s summer camps that foster Jewish pride, knowledge of Jewish and Israeli history and camper exchange programs that bring Israeli campers to the United States and American campers to Israel.

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AJT

according to arlene

A Firsthand Look at the AIPAC Convention MY EXPERIENCE ON DAY ONE

BY Arlene Appelrouth

’m here in Washington, D.C. for the 2013 AIPAC Conference. As I approached the Washington Convention Center on the first day of the conference, the first thing I noticed was a protester.

I was one of more than 13,000 people registered to attend the three-day summit of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, and as a first timer at this annual event, I was curious about what the experience would entail and whether it would motivate me to become involved in politics as an activist.

She was standing outside the main entrance of the building, shouting about how unconscionable Israel is in its treatment of Palestinians.

She carried a large white placard with an anti-Israel slogan.

Although I came in with a vague understanding of AIPAC as a proIsrael lobbying organization, I must admit I had not done any research before making the decision to attend. So why did I decide to go?

Her message did not interest me.

I walked past her and entered the building, eager to hear about good things happening in Israel, and I was not disappointed.

Many of my friends attended AIPAC 2012, and they came back filled with stories about what a great experience it was. They had listened to politicians and other experts talk

AJT Columnist

I

“The scientific and medical devices demonstrated on the first day of the AIPAC conference were miraculous.”

about the Middle East and came home claiming to have a deeper understanding about what was really going on.

he got up from his chair on-screen and…

They returned to Atlanta talking about the importance of strengthening the American-Israeli relationship, and they shared their experiences of speaking to members of Congress about the issues.

Now speaking directly to the audience, Webb said he had never met the Israeli engineer who invented this new technology, but that now AIPAC was bringing the two men together. It was a powerful moment when Dr. Amit Goffer, the Israeli inventor, came to the stage in a motorized wheel chair.

In other words, the conference seemed to have informed, inspired and excited them – and I wanted all of that for myself. My husband Dan was also eager to go, so last March he took advantage of the early-registration discount and signed both of us up online.

And This Was Just the First Morning…

Returning to the present: This year’s proceedings – held over three days, March 3 to 5 – started with a panel focused on current foreign policy. Former CNN anchor and Washington Bureau Chief Frank Sesno moderated the discussion between the Israeli Ambassador to the U.S., Michael Oren, and experts on Middle Eastern studies Elliott Abrams and Dennis Ross.

As I sat in the darkened auditorium with thousands of delegates, I found myself listening intently to the discussions about the rivalries, conflicts and economics of a region known for volatility. I kept thinking that Israel, as it approaches its 65th birthday, is more vulnerable than ever before.

When the first discussion ended, a video was played on the many large screens in the room. At first, I thought it was a commercial; it featured a family, sitting around a table. The father spoke about his experiences as an athlete.

MARCH 8 ▪ 2013

I wasn’t sure what I was watching or why I was watching it. As it turns out, this was more like a documentary than a commercial.

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The formerly athletic father, Dan Webb, had been paralyzed in a hunting accident. A paraplegic, he told his story from a wheel chair. Meanwhile, the attention of everyone in the auditorium was riveted to the screens.

At one point, the narrator began describing miraculous innovative medical technology that had allowed Dan Webb to learn to walk again.

Using equipment called “Rewalk”

Then he walked on stage in the conference hall.

Dr. Goffer explained that he was a quadriplegic. Today, he is still working on technology that would give him the ability to walk again.

Hearing and seeing this gave me chills, and I was similarly impressed as the program shifted and continued by introducing more innovations from Israel. We delegates sat, watching other miraculous, jaw-dropping inventions recently created in the Jewish State.

For example: Neuroscientists have developed a method, called “sensory replacement,” that enables blind people to see by retraining the brain to use sound as a form of sight.

Another amazing invention could help control the AIDS epidemic. A new device can circumcise adult men – and thus reduce their chance of contracting HIV by up to 70 percent – without surgery or blood.

Indeed, as a whole, the scientific and medical devices demonstrated on the first day of the AIPAC conference were miraculous. While on a lunch break, I chatted with fellow Atlantans about the significance of the morning session.

Atlanta Scholars Kollel Rabbi Michoel Lipshutz put into words what I think many of the delegates were thinking.

“This is absolutely inspirational,” he said. “It shows the great impact the Jewish mind is having on the world. It shows how Jewish people give to those less fortunate.

“It’s wonderful that Jews have a can-do, never-give-up attitude. It’s just part of our souls.”

Arlene Appelrouth earned a degree in news-editorial journalism from the University of Florida and her career as a writer and journalist spans a 50-year period; she currently studies memoir writing while working on her first book.

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AJT

new moon meditations

Nisan Brings Pesach, Personal Reflection SPIRITUAL LOOK AT THE SEARCH FOR CHAMETZ

BY DR. TERRY SEGAL AJT Contributor

R

osh Chodesh Nisan begins on March 12 this year.

That first day of Nisan re-

mains an historic day, as that is the date on which we were commanded to sanctify the new moon, thus beginning the tradition of Rosh Chodesh.

This gift of mastery over time has allowed our holidays to fall within the

same season and the same phases of the moon each year.

Nisan is the first month on the Hebrew calendar, and it also hosts Passover, which always falls on a full moon in spring; Pesach begins on the 15th day of Nisan, which corresponds this year with March 25. The holiday is – like many of our traditions – rich in symbolism.

We eat and don’t eat specific foods on Passover, and we also follow the seder, or the “order” of things. I personally find comfort in the repetition of the traditional rituals year after year, but I also challenge myself to learn or experience something new on each of the various holidays.

This year at Passover, I’m looking to the Zohar for deeper spiritual meaning. This collection of commentaries on the Torah includes much on Kabbalah, or Jewish mysticism. The spiritual aspects include mystical psychology, astrology, the energy of the universe, the nature of the soul and the connection between G-d and man.

It is believed that Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai – or Rashbi, as he is commonly known – attained all 125 degrees of the “spiritual ladder” and presented them as this spiritual path. He entitled the guide zohar, which means “radiance” in Hebrew.

For those who are spiritually evolved, the Zohar becomes an aid in understanding one’s soul, whereas for those who have yet to explore their spirituality, the contents read as legends and stories. Wherever we are on this path, I think there is much to be gained by exploring the levels of our beliefs and rituals through the lens of Kabbalah.

MARCH 8 ▪ 2013

For example: I took chametz – foods we do not eat during Passover – and examined it from this perspective. Note that chametz is usually referred to as leavening, but it is more clearly defined as any flour of the five species of grain (wheat, barley, oats, spelt or rye) which is mixed with water and allowed to ferment.

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In the Zohar, leavening is likened to the yetzer hara, or the evil inclination inside all of us. If fed, it can double in size and grow proportionately to how much attention it is given.

Thus, the trappings of the ego can enslave us to serve it through greed, pettiness, narrow-mindedness, stagnation and self-serving desires.

Taking this interpretation into

account, the chametz search on the night before Passover becomes an opportunity to turn a physical act into a spiritual one. Physically, we use a feather to sweep out the stray Cheerios that may have escaped from the cereal box. By candlelight, we identify the chametz, separate it and set it aside to be burned in the morning.

Spiritually, it can be a time for introspection. Much like on Yom Kippur, we have a chance to take stock.

We are alone in the dark with ourselves. There is but one flame for light.

So we sit in the dark with the candle – the glow serving as a representation of the soul and a reminder of G-d’s presence – and attempt to make a clean sweep of our souls.

Sometimes, in the veil of night, we try to fool ourselves; often, we need to sleep on things for greater clarity.

Having isolated the chametz in our souls, we may dream about how we can remove these negative behaviors and alter our perceptions. When we awaken in the light of day, the pile of crumbs serves as a physical reminder of our internal quest, and we are ready to burn the chametz.

This offers us a symbolic cleansing as well.

As the smoke rises, the following prayer is recited: “All leaven and anything leavened that is in my possession – whether I have seen it or not, whether I have observed it or not, whether I have removed it or not – shall be considered naught and ownerless as the dust of the earth.”

Then, in eating matzah for the next week, we are changing our habits and not ingesting the substance that represented the previous ways.

We can use this with our intention to free ourselves from the old, negative patterns. It is truly a journey of freedom.

Meditation Focus What restrictions of the ego are you a slave to? What do you need to release in order to truly be free?

Dr. Terry Segal is a licensed marriage & family therapist, Ph.D. in energy medicine, hypnotherapist and author of “The Enchanted Journey: Finding the Key that Unlocks You.”

AJT

eden’s garden

The Chocolate Thief WHAT MAKES OR BREAKS A COMMUNITY

BY EDEN FARBER

AJT Contributor

B

etween waking up early in the morning for Daf Yomi (the independent learning that I do before school) and getting home late from play rehearsal, my life is currently very hectic.

As a result, the little treats that I have in my life – an episode of Doctor Who, a chapter of my book, a longer shower, an extra hour of sleep – are more important than ever.

One hugely significant treat I have for the nights that rehearsals run extraordinarily late is a chocolate bar.

To tell the truth, this chocolate treat doesn’t just give me the endorphins I need to make it through a rehearsal with a smile, but it actively maintains my sanity. So you can imagine then how it felt when I went to my locker and found my lunch bag unzipped and my chocolate missing.

Things only got worse when I spotted the wrapper on the floor of a nearby classroom.

It was heartbreaking. Even the generous and kind offer of chocolate from the office lady at my school didn’t lighten my mood. The problem is that, along with the stolen chocolate, something bigger had been lost: trust.

Some people suggest that it’s a “dog-eat-dog” world we live in and that many people only care about themselves. Apparently, it would seem that when the going gets tough, the tough do whatever they can just for themselves – even if that means pushing their friends out of the way.

Follow this way of life, and a community just might break apart.

My school is a close-knit one; not only does every student know everyone else’s name, but they know in what area they live, in what class pe-

riod they pray, and in which carpool they ride.

back; each separate one is insignificant.

And it’s not just my school that is a small community. Many synagogues in the Atlanta area are relatively small, and all over the world there are other such communities: few in number but bound tightly together.

Our focus needs to be on preaching a belief and behavior that promotes community needs over immediate gratification. We need to re-instill trust in our friends and work at relationships, instead of throwing them aside.

It’s when the essential bond of trust is breached that we are left with holes in our unity. This is both unfortunate and dangerous.

We need to remember that strong communities, through thick and thin, will value every single member and eventually come out on top. That is the formula for unity.

No, one chocolate bar will not make or break a community, divide a synagogue or break up a friendship.

But losing trust in an institution – or, more importantly, the people that make it up – starts to rip away the fabric that holds it all together.

So, what can we do?

It’s not about keeping our hands to ourselves. The minor issues are merely straws piling atop a camel’s

That, and perhaps more chocolate for all.

Atlanta’s Eden Farber, 15, was recognized in the Jewish Heritage National Poetry Contest of 2010 and has published op-eds and poetry in Modern Hippie Magazine and the NY Jewish Week’s Fresh Ink for Teens section.

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AJT

l’chaim

Spring is Near

NATURE’S TESTIMONY TO G-D’S GREATNESS

BY TED ROBERTS

The “Scribbler on the Roof�

Y

ou can learn a lot from your rabbi, but you can also learn a lot from nature. To watch a mama cat handle her young may be as informative as a chapter in Genesis.

The “wired care� and affection a cat exhibits when caring for her kittens offers evidence of a supreme creator just as solid as that offered in Genesis. Cats are prime proof that somewhere, somehow, a power started and maintains the engine of life that we call the world.

And then, there are plants. Put

a potted bulb (say, an amaryllis) in a sunny window, and when the warmth of the sun hits the soil, green shoots seeking the sun sprout up from the earth.

The plant always leans into the sun, and only by continuing to turn it can you keep it straight.

Oddly, this plant – with no brain, unlike us or even the cat – automatically seeks its power source. In a way, it has no independence; if it leans away from the sun or is removed from the sun, it dies.

And so it is with us. The exception is that we often cannot find the sun or – since we are endowed with free will – we choose the dark instead.

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But nobody can accuse us of ignoring G-d’s handiwork. We Jews have prayers for everything, from your backyard rosebush to the eye color of Zayde’s newest grandchild. See your rabbi for a complete catalogue.

The good Jew, the appreciative Jew, reveling in the expanded Garden of Eden that G-d has given us to roam in, says a prayer over nature’s beauty; the sunset; the mountains; the loaf of challah on the Shabbos table; the newly delivered infant.

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If he’s observant, he says the proper prayer. If he’s your run-ofthe-mill Jew – your semi-affiliated, gefilte fish-eating, Pesach-observant Israelite – maybe his heart speaks in its own language.

Maybe he doesn’t know the proper words, but deep down inside there’s a murmur of thanks, of appreciation, as he glimpses the everyday miracle of his bodily functions; not to mention the blessing of sitting at the Shabbos table surrounded by loving family.

MARCH 8 â–Ş 2013

And if he doesn’t say “hamotzi lechem min ha-aretz,� still he thinks how gracious of G-d to provide.

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Too, he even notices that the tulip tree beside the dining room window is displaying lavish pink blossoms. Is there a special prayer for a tulip tree in full bloom? I’m only a scribbler – ask your rabbi.

Dinner Reservations Suggested

al f r e d o s a t l a n t a . c o m

the resuscitation of life enhances our gratitude.

But unlike the pagans our ancestors encountered in Canaan and the various theologies we were exposed to after Sinai, we are careful to worship the Creator, not His creation. We understand that the sun, moon and sea are His miraculous works.

“Nobody can accuse us of ignoring G-d’s handiwork; we Jews have prayers for everything, from your backyard rosebush to the eye color of Zayde’s newest grandchild.�

Spring is the renewal, the revival;

They are visual symbols of His invisible power. This was our gift to the world, this understanding of an unimaginable, transcendental creator. So don’t pray to the sycamore grove that crowns the hill, but to He who puts life in lifeless wood.

Now, as to spring and the hope that it brought to the primitive human heart – “look, the tree was not lifeless; buds and fruit decorate its limbs; amazing, it comes back every year� – the ancients had numerous myths involving their gods, the deliverers of this rejuvenating season.

Their explanations were poetic if not accurate; usually they are a variation on the story of evil Hades, the god of the underworld, and his capture of a beneficent goddess.

Nature mourned her departure, and the trees shed their leaves like tears. All life turned brown with grief. But somehow the goddess always escaped the underworld, at least temporarily, and that was when nature flared into life in wild exultation. The trees fruited, and the lowly grape vine leafed and offered its fruit.

Such tales of deities who misbehaved like their human counterparts were prevalent at a time when our prophets were explaining that an invisible presence of goodness was driving nature. Indeed, this presence is an ethical power whose greatest hope for man is to see his children walk in the footsteps of their Creator.

Ted Roberts is author of “The Scribbler on the Roof,� which is available through Amazon.com and lulu.com/ content/127641. Website: wonderworks.com. Blog: scribblerontheroof. typepad.com.

AJT

if you ask me

Why Contradict Accepted, Age-Old Teachings?

CHALLENGING FARBER’S “FABRICATION”

BY Rabbi Shlomo Pinkus

For the Atlanta Jewish Times

preparation for the future of the Jewish people. This account shows us how the relationship between Hashem and the Jewish people would change when the Israelites were no longer in the Holy Land and the Temple was no longer standing.

There was a column in the Feb. 22 AJT entitled “Who Put the ‘SH!’ in Vashti?” More than disturbed by the writer’s lack of research and understanding of the information obtained, I was scared that someone would actually think, write and print the ideas that were presented.

From the time of Moshe Rabbenu (Moses) until the point when the Purim tale was recorded, there was always a Mishkan (Tabernacle). It served as a medium through which the Jews were able to connect to Hashem in a “tangible” way.

The piece described Vashti as a heroine of her time, standing up for women’s rights against the tyranny of a vulgar king. It then continued by twisting information so as to make readers believe that “the rabbis and their midrashim” are to blame for our negative view of Vashti.

The author asserted that Vashti was not an evil queen, but actually very pretty, and that Queen Esther is only put into a good light in the tale of Purim because she was Jewish.

My only hope is that no one with any sense of historical experience believed the opinions of this article.

The logic used debases our entire religion, which for the most part is reliant on a mesorah, the unbroken chain passed down from generation to generation.

Judaism as we know it has been molded by the rabbis and midrashim into a religion able to withstand the sands of time for eternity. To negate their teachings just for sheer amusement or to fit a picture that is simply not true is absurd. For lack of a better word, it certainly takes some chutzpah.

If we would look at just some of the midrashim – which were recorded at the time of Purim by the people involved, who witnessed the miracles unfold – in fitting fashion, we would see a very different story than what was depicted in the aforementioned writing. Indeed, the story of Purim is not a “Disney story,” as it was put; nor is it a 1960s women’s rights rally.

It is much greater and deeper than most people would understand.

In fact, the Megillat Esther is the

The mishkanim – whether in mobile tent format or as a solid structure – gave us the ability to make Hashem a reality in our life in a way that would be unattainable without a physical location. We were able to use these places of worship as tools to see miracles in a very real and obvious way.

ing power after this; Persia and their King Ahasuerus retained their control.

The Jewish people continued to be subjugated until the Persian Empire was destroyed by the Greeks later on.

Thus, for the midrashim to skew the topics and speak in ways that would belittle a Persian queen in a way that was so far from the truth would have been a very serious crime.

Another difficulty with the contentions of the author in question is that that there exists no basis – in either the religious midrashim or in the Persian documents – for a “good Vashti.” If we go about making our own revisions to history in this way, contradicting our only recordings, could one not claim that the Romans

were known to be abstinent or that King George III was not a bad ruler and it was evil rebels that stole his land to form America?

In short, I ask why we should not accept the truth – especially when it is so much more rational and understandable – but instead create our own version of the story?

Editor’s note: Rabbi Shlomo Pinkus is a rabbinic field representative for the Atlanta Kashruth Commission.

For his continued explanation of the Purim story, see atljewishtimes.com.

When the events of the story of Purim occurred, the First Temple had been destroyed. Thus, for the first time the relationship between the Creator and His people had changed; the Jews had to work harder and look deeper to see the hand of Hashem in our everyday lives. The purpose of the megillah is to show just how this connection will work and look in the future.

At first glance, there are many parts of the Purim story that seem almost irrelevant. We skim over them, but that’s the whole point – that nothing is irrelevant, that everything in this world, whether we realize it or not, is for the benefit of the Jewish people. Whether it is a small cyst, a dinner party or the actions of a single Jew, the seemingly insignificant has the potential to change the course of an entire people.

The writer of “Who Put the ‘SH!’…” claims that Vashti was in fact admirable and puts forward the idea that the midrashim are biased – that the Jews of the time somehow rewrote history. Besides for the religious and cultural ramifications, this does not make any sense historically.

As many historians will say, “history is written by the victor.” The Jewish people may have survived and been able to rebuild the Holy Temple, but they were not the rul-

MARCH 8 ▪ 2013

N

o matter the subject at hand, there will always be a difference of opinions.

Before we jump to conclusions (and, in this case, literally create our own opinions), maybe we should hear all sides of the story.

11

AJT

community

Hemshech Looks to Future, Furthering Mission NEW LOGO UNVEILED, YOM HASHOAH SPEAKER ANNOUNCED

BY RON FEINBERG WEB EDITOR

I

t’s black, grey and yellow, features a Jewish Star and six vertical lines: Hemshech’s new logo grabs your attention with its stark colors and sharp angles, and the hope is that it will help carry the organization’s message into the 21st century.

“We wanted to make sure when people looked at our logo, they got what we were about,” said Karen Edlin, the organization’s president.

“And we wanted to make sure that people understood that Hemshech is open to anyone who supports our mission.”

Hemshech – the word for “continuation” in Hebrew – is a group of Holocaust survivors, their families, friends and supporters. It was started in the mid-1960s as “Eternal Life – Hemshech” by survivors searching

for a healthy way to embrace their past and remember those lost.

The organization’s first mission was to create a permanent monument, a place where survivors and their families could say Kaddish.

What started off going in one direction – a simple piece of marble stuck in the ground – soon veered off on an altogether different path when Ben Hirsch, a young architect and a survivor himself, became part of the planning process.

The resulting memorial, a euphonic blend of chiseled stone and soaring torches, was dedicated in 1965 at Greenwood Cemetery in South Atlanta during the first official Yom HaShoah service in the city. Now, nearly five decades later, the memorial will be the site for the 48th annual community-wide Yom HaShoah

service on April 7; the featured speaker this year will be none other t h a n Hirsch, who remains inextricably connected to the memorial and Atlanta’s Holocaust community.

Karen Edlin (left), president of Hemshech, and Rhona Storch Albright, chair of this year’s 48th annual Yom HaShoah commemoration.

PHOTO/Gary Feinberg

MARCH 8 ▪ 2013

T h e memorial, by the way, is linked to Hemshech’s new logo. At least, that’s the view of some of the organization’s members, who see the memorial’s torches reflected in the six vertical lines filling the top of the image.

12

“It’s interesting what people had to say about the logo,” Edlin said. “Some people mentioned the torches, others the Six Million who died in the Holocaust. Some said it reminded them of the uniforms inmates wore in the concentration camps.”

The image also makes it clear that the organization, started by survivors and supported by family members, is open to “friends.”

“Many people think Hemshech is only for survivors and their families,” Edlin said. “But the organiza-

tion is open to anyone dedicated to our mission and cause.”

And that cause – honoring and remembering the Holocaust and its victims – remains just as important today as when the g r o u p f i r s t gathered together years ago for support and friendship.

“It’s important to recall the past and what happened,” Edlin said. “I think the best gift we can give to the Six Million is to remember them and to continue telling their stories.”

Editor’s note: For additional information on Hemshech, contact Karen Edlin at Klanskyedlin@aol.com.

AJT

community

Kvelling for Construction CMCH’S MAIN EVENT CELEBRATES GOLDSTEIN CENTER From Chabad of Georgia

For the Atlanta Jewish Times

M

ore than 250 people attended the Chaya Mushka Children’s House Main Event fundraiser held the evening of Feb. 10.

For more information on Chabad of Georgia, Congregation Beth Tefilah or the Chaya Mushka Children’s House, visit chabadga.com.

Inspired by the current building project at Congregation Beth Tefillah, creative decor fit the construction theme. Hardhats and ladders decorated the room, which was filled with guests celebrating the school and the new Jeff & Carrla Goldstein Youth & Education Center that is currently under construction.

The evening event featured a raffle, a live auction and a silent auction for children’s art projects. Mandy and Tiran Avdar-Rubin were honored with the Outstanding Family Award, while Phil and Allison Cuba were honored for their push to bring the building project to fruition.

PHOTOS/Chabad of Georgia

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AJT

community

Sold-Out Event Benefits Residents of Breman Home “AGING IN STYLE” BRINGS GENERATIONS TOGETHER From the William Breman Jewish Home

For the Atlanta Jewish Times

T

he William Breman Jewish Home hosted a fun and fashionable information session, “Aging in Style,” at Neiman Marcus on Feb. 26. Co-chaired by longtime Jewish Home supporters Cherie Aviv and Sara Kogon, the fundraising event included a luncheon and fashion show featuring a variety of styles for a wide range of ages.

“We were talking about the Home and how aging encompasses caring for yourself,” Kogon said. “And for women, fashion helps to make you feel vibrant and cared for.”

“From there, we had a quantum leap that we could connect aging to showcasing fashion trends throughout the ages,” Aviv added.

The afternoon’s theme focused on both healthcare decisions facing the elderly and their caregivers and personal “style” choices available today.

Proceeds from “Aging in Style” will benefit residents of the Jewish Home and its satellite communities.

The program offered updated information about the Jewish Home, including details on the Aviv Rehabilitation Center for people recovering from illness and injury; the One Group, which provides private home care; and Berman Commons, a new assisted living facility to be built this spring in Dunwoody.

Aviv and Kogon came up with the idea for the program over a cup of coffee.

“I was very excited to be a part of this,” said Abbey Flaum, a member of the fundraiser’s host commit-

tee. “It was meaningful to bring women sharing a common interest in fashion together to learn about the Home and how they can get involved through volunteering or by attending special events.”

The women behind “Aging in Style” were (standing, left to right) host committee members Abbey Flaum, Tonia Sellers, Alli Medof, O t h e r Lois Blonder, Ellen Goldstein and Elaine Blumenthal and (seatmembers ed) co-chairs Cherie Aviv, Sara Kogon of the host committee included Lois Blonder, Elaine Blumenthal, Ellen Goldstein, Alli Medof and Tonia Sellers, who is also a board member of the Jewish Home and served as featured speaker at the event.

Sellers described how she found the Home when searching for care for her grandmother.

“The Home became a meaningful part of my life,” she said, “and I’m happy to give anyone the hope that his or her family member can receive the same comfort we got from being a part of the Home!”

MARCH 8 ▪ 2013

Carole Shovers, the Jewish Home’s director of development, praised the program and the Home.

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“The Home offers so much as a caring resource to residents and the community,” Shovers said. “The idea to hold an event to link fashion trends with the life cycles of aging resonated strongly.”

TOP: Attendees (L-R) Ellen Goldstein, Jackie Granath, Elissa Fladell and Debbie Sonenshine.

BOTTOM: From left to right, “Aging in Style” attendees Samantha Schoenbaum, Wendi Aspes and Karen Luscher.

Kogon added that the Home is also a place for people of all ages: volunteers, school groups, synagogues and more.

“It just made sense to show the breadth and depth of what the Home has to offer to all ages in a fun and unique way,” she said.

Editor’s note: The William Breman Jewish Home is a nonprofit organization that has provided aging services since 1951. To learn more about The Home and its affiliated communities, please visit wbjh.org.

AJT

community

Sonenshine Takes Top Honors

SANDY SPRINGS COLDWELL BANKER TEAM RECOGNIZED

C

oldwell Banker Residential Brokerage announces that Debbie Sonenshine has been recognized as the company’s No. 1 sales associate in Atlanta for 2012.

Additionally, Debbie’s team (which operates out of the Sandy Springs office) was recognized as the top team in Atlanta and received the Coldwell Banker International President’s Elite award. This honor is bestowed upon the top echelon of Coldwell Banker sales teams nationwide.

“Debbie and her team members Rhianna Mintz Shemper, Katie Gallow and Star Newman have an incredible attention to detail, dedication to their clients and knowledge of the local real estate market,” said Charlotte Sears, president of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage in Atlanta. “They are true professionals in every sense of the word, and it shows with the accolades they receive year after year.”

Sonenshine has been with Coldwell Banker for more than three decades and received her 30-year Gold Phoenix from the Atlanta Board of Realtors in 2012. She is active in the community, participating in the Community Assistance Center, Congregation B’nai Torah and the Jewish Federation of Greater Atlanta. She is also a Coldwell Banker Cares Foundation representative.

Emory Sponsors Talk on Kabbalah’s Eastern Influences PROFESSOR MOSHE IDEL SPEAKS MATCH 18

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any think the concept of “Jew-Bu” – Jews embracing Buddhist mysticism – is a new development. On Mon., March 18, Hebrew University Professor Moshe Idel will be at Emory to tell us how medieval Jewish mysticism was also influenced by religious ideas from India.

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Professor Idel, the most prominent living scholar of Kabbalah and Jewish mysticism, will focus on the arrival of Hindu and Buddhist literature to Medieval Europe and its impact on Jewish mysticism. Primary areas in which this influence presents itself are in the visualization of colors in Kabbalistic prayer and the Chasidic view of the world as maya (meaning “illusion” in Sanskrit).

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Editor’s note: The event – free and open to the public – will take place in Room 207 of White Hall on the Emory campus on Mon., March 18, 7:30 p.m. RSVP to tames2@emory.edu or (404) 727-0896 is appreciated.

15

AJT

sports

Icy Israel RECREATIONAL HOCKEY IN THE JEWISH STATE

BY John McCurdy

Managing Editor

E

ast Cobb resident Steve Zinsenheim is a living, breathing testament to a local hockey community that continues to thrive despite Atlanta’s warm weather and misfortune with National Hockey League franchises.

He’s also a proud Jew and a frequent visitor to Israel. These two seemingly disparate interests – in a sport played on ice and a country known for a generally dry and hot climate – got him to thinking:

Could they ever come together?

Seemingly against all odds, yes.

Near the Lebanese border rests the city of Metula, where the Jewish State’s one and only hockey-size rink hosts weekly pickup games.

“The building is called the Canada

Center,” Zinsenheim said. “All these people who have made aliyah, these ex-pats from Canada and the Northeastern U.S., make this three-hour drive up to Metula to play hockey.”

Indeed: The Israel Recreational Hockey Association (IRHA), under the guidance of oleh Dr. Danny Spodek, hosts weekly pick-up games for anyone with the proper gear and the willingness to schlep to the northern reaches of the country.

It’s the annual IRHA Tournament that’s the highlight of the year, though, as around 50 – some olim, some visitors and a few sabras – come together in friendly competition.

The seventh iteration of the event, held in February, caught Zinsenheim’s attention.

Atlanta’s own Steve Zinsenheim, IRHA volunteer referee PHOTO/courtesy Steve Zinsenheim

While actually playing wasn’t an option, he still wanted to get on the ice.

“I thought, ‘Wait a minute – I’ve been reffing for two years.

I wonder if they need a ref?’” Zinsenheim said. “I emailed Dr. Spodek, and he replied that they’d love to have me. So I volunteered my services, they covered my hotel stay, and I had a great time.”

He compares the action to that of top men’s rec leagues here in Atlanta. The Israelis understandably were a bit behind the folks originally from the Great White North, but everyone skated well and had a blast.

“I was really surprised at how high a level of hockey was being played there,” Zinsenheim said. “A lot of the Canadians and Americans had played hockey their whole lives, so it was a very fast-paced game.

Some of the other players were a little slower, but they were still able to participate.”

He was also interested to find out that many of the players were fairly Orthodox in their observance.

Two had peyot that peeked from the bottom of their helmets, and many walked out of the locker room after a game with yarmulke on.

“After the game, they’d shower and then put on their kippah and tzitzit,” Zinsenheim said. “It was great to get to know these guys and generally have a good time with them.”

When asked whether he’ll be going back next year, he’s pretty sure of the answer. He just hopes he can get a few more of Atlanta’s hockey fans to come with.

“If you love hockey, it doesn’t matter where you’re from,” Zinsenheim said. “You can know the sport, understand the sport and be passionate about the sport.”

MARCH 8 ▪ 2013

Editor’s note: For more info on the IRHA, visit israelhockeyassociation. com or facebook.com/IsraelRecreationalHockeyAssociation.

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AJT

arts & life

Riotous Israeli Rock Comes to AJMF Q & A WITH ELECTRA FRONTMAN NITZAN HORESH

by ELIZABETH FRIEDLY Assistant Editor

C

rowned “the best new band in Israel” by Time Out Tel Aviv magazine, Electra has been garnering attention from local and international tastemakers since the release of their 2010 debut, “Heartbreaks For Fools.”

The album’s single, “Coming To Get You!,” promptly took over the Israeli airwaves. Fans and critics alike readily embraced them throughout the country. The next goal on the horizon? Taking over the rest of the globe.

The trio’s touring ethic has been relentless since their formation; in their travels, they’ve visited the U.S. as headliners and opened for rock acts The Fall and Art Brut in 2011.

In turn, American publications such as Paste and LA Weekly caught on to their catchy brand of pop-rock and energetic live shows. The former

listed them as one of the top bands of South by Southwest 2011 and the latter likened them to hit-makers The Arctic Monkeys.

come a long way in only a few years.

How did it all begin?

Nitzan Horesh: Me and Doron [Farhi], the bass player, we knew each other a few years back. Then we came across Boaz [Wolf].

The band went on a break for a little bit while I was in London.

When I came back, we hooked up with Boaz.

Since then, the group has kept the momentum going.

On March 16 – shortly before they leave for Nitzan Horesh (guitar, lead vocals). a tour through PHOTO/courtesy electramusic.com Germany – Electra is set to entertain audiences at the Atlanta Jewish Music Festival’s Since then, it’s all been pretty inMain Event, where they’ll share the tense for us. We signed to Anova Restage with Lisa Loeb and Saul Kaye. cords, which is one of the biggest re The Atlanta Jewish Times spoke with lead vocalist Nitzan Horesh in hopes of getting to know the act a little better before the big show.

Atlanta

Jewish

Times: You’ve

cord labels in [Israel]. We wrote two albums in the last two-and-a-half years, and we’ve been touring a lot in Israel and the United States and Europe.

AJT: You guys have built up quite the audience back home. When did you first notice the band was getting big?

NH: Um, I’m not sure if there was one certain point. We’ve been working hard for the past three years. It’s been small steps.

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I mean, the first time we got onto international radio with the first single off our album, “We’re Coming to Get You!” that was quite a shock. I guess for that to become a big hit, if I had to choose one breaking point, that would be it.

AJT: What has the touring experience been like so far?

NH: We drive a lot, so you don’t really get to see a lot of the country that you’re traveling through. It’s very intense, touring. I mean, we’re just in town for one gig, traveling coastto-coast.

MARCH 8 ▪ 2013

AJT: Have you ever visited Georgia before?

18

NH: No, this will be the first time ever. We got an official invitation, and yeah, we’re very happy. It’ll be one of the first times we’ve played for the Jewish community, you know?

We take it for granted that you’re Jewish when you live in Israel, so like everyday is a “Jewish festival” for us. [But] when we tour, it’s never for Jewish communities or Jewish events. So it’s interesting playing

this event, wondering how it will be.

We’re looking forward to it.

AJT: What can fans of your first album expect from the new follow-up “Second Hand Love”?

NH: It’s better, and there’s more of it! We did some neat stuff in the studio this time for tracks that have bigger production.

On one hand, we take up more room than we ever have. It’s the same band as the first album, but bigger and better. That’s what we feel. We’re very proud of it.

AJT: As far as your sound, did you have any favorite bands that shaped you musically growing up?

NH: I mean, there were bands like The Clash, The Ramones, or just garage rock bands, mod bands – all sorts of stuff. The thing about our music is that there are many influences. We’re not just one thing or one track.

Like “Coming to Get You!” is almost ska, then “Radio On” is like a punk song, and “Charge” – the first single off this new album – is a little of both. We kind of mix all of the different elements [into] something that’s our own, I hope.

AJT: Do you feel like your politics have influenced your music at all?

NH: I think if you listen to the lyrics for songs such as “Charge” or “We’re Coming to Get You!” or, from our Bsides record, our cover of “The Israelites,” these songs convey our political statements. And I think it’s in our energy too.

We come from this part of the world, and I think it’s something about the energy. Our gigs are very intense. It’s looking in from the outside, that’s what people think.

Some people’s music is about relaxing and not thinking about anything. But the thing about our music is that we write pop songs at the end of the day, but it’s my sincere hope that our music makes you wonder or feel things about the situation.

Editor’s note: Find out more about Electra and listen to tracks at electramusic.com; get your tickets for the Atlanta Jewish Music Festival’s Main Event via ajmf.org and enter to win an AJMF VIP experience at facebook. com/atljewishtimes.

AJT

arts & life

The Man Behind the Music Q & A WITH AJMF FOUNDER RUSSELL GOTTSCHALK Managing Editor

A

t age 29, Emory grad Russell Gottschalk is the founder and director of his own non-profit, the Atlanta Jewish Music Festival. Now in its fourth year, the showcase has ascended to new heights by securing Lisa Loeb for its Main Event, to be held March 16. “You get someone like Lisa to be involved in our festival – and also available to do a family program in the afternoon – is probably the thing we’re most proud of this year,� Gottschalk said.

young children, ages 2 to 7, to engage with the AJMF. As we continue to grow, we’ll have more opportunities to present different types of music and touch different parts of our community.

AJT: About this year’s festival – what does it mean to get an artist like Lisa Loeb to headline?

RG: I’d say Lisa is, hands-down, the most exciting thing about this fourth-annual AJMF. To get an artist of that caliber, of that level of recognition and talent, is phenomenal.

As you may know, a lot of our previous As for what he himself artists and many of is most excited about as the our artists this year mid-March (14 through 16) are more niche or events approach, though‌ emerging artists; well, see the opposite page. they don’t necessarily have broad ap “Personally, I feel a very peal across the Jewstrong connection to Israish community or the el; I’m a Birthright alum, music community. and I feel like the AJMF Four years in, Russell Lisa Loeb is not that is something that may not Gottschalk and the have happened if I didn’t Atlanta Jewish Music Fes- type of artist; Lisa has go on that trip,â€? he said. tival are going strong. had a successful ca“So I’m really excited about PHOTO/courtesy AJMF reer for decades, and the fact that she had a this band Electra. They’re a new album come out at group of guys from Tel Aviv, the end of January and is on a spring and they play some really fun mutour behind this new album really sic.â€? made her the perfect fit for our festi The AJT had a chance to talk to val.

Russell a bit more about just how far Now, the people opening up for his brainchild has come.

Lisa – Electra and Saul Kaye – are similarly fantastic musicians. They Atlanta Jewish Times: When the come with a complementary styles – Atlanta Jewish Music Festival was Kaye does Jewish blues, combining first featured in the Atlanta Jewish the Delta with the Torah, and ElecTimes – two years ago – you guys tra is an Israeli rock band, a little were just getting off the ground with bit more of a harsh, grunge sound, your second-ever festival. Catch me which reflects the area of the country up on how far you guys have come in that they’re from. the meantime.

It’s a great bill, and we’re excited Russell Gottschalk: From two to hear the music of all the people inyears ago to this year, our biggest volved. growth has been both upward and outward. In 2011, we had a threeday festival with three events. We’ve AJT: People should also know that since made this a bigger event: last AJMF has year-round programming. year was a five-day festival, and Tell me a little about the philosophy this year is a three-day festival, but behind that. there’s four events in three days.

RG: We think that programming We’ve also been more intentional year-round is a “win-win-win.� It alin targeting certain demograph- lows for our community to continue ics with these events. For example, to be engaged with AJMF, so it’s we’re doing a jazz night for the first great for our brand. time this year to kick off our festival.

Also, for the first time this year we’re doing a family program, which will be an opportunity for people with

It’s also great for the community because, as a person who loves Jewish music, I don’t want to wait 11-and-a-half months between festi-

vals; I want to be able to enjoy Jewish music year-round, and different types of Jewish music and different artists.

ish music community, we love to be able to support these artists as much as possible.

Lastly, it’s great for the artists; we have such a fantastic local Jewish music community and national Jew-

Editor’s note: Visit atlantajmf.org for more information, a full schedule of events and ticket links.

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AJT

arts & life

Kosher Movies: 127 Hours (2010) WEIGHING RISKS WITH SAFETY

by RABBI HERBERT COHEN AJT Contributor

M

y wife and I greatly enjoy visiting America’s national parks and going for hikes. In terms of our approach, I am a bit impulsive on the trails and am ready to start walking at almost any trailhead, while my wife is more methodical.

She always wants to know if the trail is a loop, how long the hike will take and whether we have enough water to sustain us for the duration of the hike. As I get older, I realize the wisdom in her words and now plan carefully for such adventures, to insure that I do not put myself at risk.

I thought of my own hiking experiences in Canyonlands National Park

in Utah as I watched “127 Hours,” the true story of Aron Ralston, an extreme sportsman who found himself trapped in an isolated crevasse in that same park after a boulder fell on his arm.

The story begins on Friday, April 25, 2003, when Aron is preparing for his day of hiking. Excited about his upcoming adventure, he is careless about his preparation: A clever camera shot of his hand trying to find stuff in a closet reveals that he forgets to take his trusty Swiss knife with him, a fact that will have consequences later on.

Aron is well into his hike, climbing over and through narrow stone passageways, when tragedy strikes.

He dislodges a large boulder, which crushes his right arm against the canyon wall.

He calls for help, but no one can hear him; he is in a remote section of the park with no one nearby.

W h a t ’ s worse, he has told no one where he was going that day. His situation soon turns desperate, and – realizing that his fate is in his own hands – he begins a video diary with his portable camera and starts to ration water and food.

With each passing hour, Aron gets groggier, thinking about his friends, his family and his uncertain future.

As his strength ebbs away, he understands that the sole way to survive is to amputate his arm, a near-impossible task with a dull-bladed knife on a multi-tool device.

MARCH 8 ▪ 2013

Finally, he accepts the reality of his situation and methodically plans to amputate his arm with the crude devices he has available. It is both wrenching and riveting to watch his ordeal.

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The series of events changes Aron.

Instead of being the independent adventurer responsible only for himself, he now understands that he needs others. His tortured cry for help at the end of his trial is a recognition that living for oneself is ultimately a lonely existence.

And on another level, Aron’s trials remind us of the importance of properly preparing for a dangerous trip, letting people know of your whereabouts and evaluating the inherent risk before attempting a perilous

task. Furthermore, the viewer is forced to define for him- or herself what is an “acceptable risk” when it comes to engaging in behavior which could endanger one’s life.

Jewish law is prescriptive regarding the notion of acceptable risk.

The Bible states that “you shall guard your souls,” which means that we should not do anything that jeopardizes our health and safety; and the Talmud even instructs us not to walk next to an unstable or shaky wall.

Furthermore, if we build a house, we have to insure that it is safe. If it has a roof that people can traverse, the roof must have a fence, and if we own a dog that might bite, we have to make sure that the dog is in a secure location, so that guests are free of danger. Recent codes of Jewish law forbid smoking under the same guideline – smoking is hazardous to your health and, therefore, is considered an unacceptable risk.

“127 Hours” is a gripping narrative of survival, and embedded within the story are many life lessons. It encourages us to celebrate and enjoy life, to value the presence of significant others and not to be careless and place ourselves in unnecessary danger.

Rabbi Cohen, former principal of Yeshiva Atlanta, now resides in Beit Shemesh, Israel. Visit koshermovies. com for more of his Torah-themed film reviews.

AJT

Let it be read

A Thrilling Real-Life Tale of Justice “HUNTING EICHMANN” BY NEAL BASCOMB

by RON FEINBERG WEB EDITOR

Right on his heels and at his beck and call was a bunch of infamous thugs, including Hermann Göring, Hitler’s designated successor, commander of the Luftwaffe and one of the early architects of the Holocaust; Reinhard Heydrich, chief of the Reichssicherheitshauptamt (the Reich Main Security Office that included the Gestapo) and another early architect of the Holocaust; Heinrich Himmler, head of the SS and chief of the German Police; and Josef Mengele, also known as the “Angel of Death,” a bully and sadist who often was the final arbiter on who would live and who would die at AuschwitzBirkenau, the largest of the Nazi death camps.

And then there was Adolf Eichmann, a very small fish in a very large and fetid pond. The SS-Obersturmbannführer was head of the Department for Jewish Affairs in the Gestapo, charged with the creation and implementation of the “Final Solution.”

While most of his bosses – all virulent anti-Semites – set the stage for the extermination of countless people, it was Eichmann and his team of bureaucrats who figured out the logistics: the rounding up of entire communities, creation of ghettos and camps, scheduling of transports and collection of contraband.

Despite his claims that he was simply following orders, Eichmann was a mass murderer who lacked any sort of moral compass. It’s quite possible that, mesmerized and nurtured by the power and decadence of Nazi Germany, he was by war’s end a full-blown psychopath.

Reports indicate that Eichmann relished his work and took delight as his intricate plans played out across Eastern Europe. Millions of Jews were ripped from their homes and villages and tossed into crowd-

by hundreds of interviews and recently declassified documents.

ed excuses for “living conditions,” and the vast majority were ultimately murdered and buried in mass graves or cremated and turned to ash.

Today, even those of us with only a casual knowledge of World War II and the Holocaust know that Eichmann managed to escape from Europe after Allied forces defeated the Nazis. His story was far from over, though; after he made his way to South America and managed to hide away for 15 years, Israeli agents kidnapped him near his home outside of Buenos Aires.

In a daring – some might say “heroic” – operation, Eichmann was then flown halfway around the world to Israel, where he was held as a war criminal, tried for crimes against the Jewish people and humanity and subsequently found guilty and hanged. Since, novels, biographies, documentaries, TV specials and dramas have been written and aired about Eichmann, his loathsome life and work, capture, trial and execution.

I mention all this, a bit of windy preamble, to suggest that it’s worth your time to check out “Hunting Eichmann” by Neal Bascomb (Mariner Books; 388 pages). The work was published a few years ago, and a feature film is in the works.

Bascomb’s book often reads like an intricate spy novel, filled with twists and turns that he managed to uncover after the release of groundbreaking new information. This lucky break – for Bascomb as well as his readers – has resulted in a gripping narrative supported and fleshed out

– the Mossad.

The basic plot hasn’t changed, but now readers have the opportunity to take a peek behind the facts. What we find offers up a troubling look into the crazed mind of Eichmann and, just as interesting, into the planning and execution of his capture by a feisty, still-maturing intelligence agency

The team of spies and their helpers were an eclectic blend of experienced agents and naïve, anxious volunteers. As Bascomb reports, it took equal measures of chutzpah, steely resolve and expertise to accomplish their mission.

They were also very lucky. One agent, on his way to South America through Europe, forgot his alias when retrieving his passport from custom officials. Fortunately, he spotted the proper passport – he recognized its unique color – and simply pointed at it.

Another agent, checking out Eichmann’s neighborhood, became distracted and drove his car into a ditch.

And yet another group of agents were stopped by police as they drove near Eichmann’s home, but they were not detained after telling the cops they were lost and looking for their hotel.

To the team’s credit, however, each member managed to pay close attention to all the important details of the mission. The operatives arranged and coordinated dozens of secret meetings, rented cars and safe houses and successfully counterfeited passports, visas, identity cards

and driver licenses. Their work was cosmically bland, painfully intense and emotionally draining.

Then again, for most of the Israelis, capturing Eichmann was not just another job. Their lives and that of their families were inextricably linked to the Holocaust, and so tracking down one of the world’s most notorious Nazis was of profound significance to each of them personally and – as it would turn out – to the future of Israel.

Meanwhile, Bascomb’s book portrays Eichmann as a failed megalomaniac, a toady bureaucrat who once held the power of life and death in his blood-soaked hands. During the war he lived in villas and mansions, had at least two mistresses and spent his evenings enjoying the spoils of victory.

Fifteen years after the Reich was nothing more than a fading memory, Eichmann and his family were living in a wretched concrete shack in the middle of a desolate neighborhood with few amenities and no public utilities. If not completely shunned by the German expatriate community in Argentina, he was certainly ignored, perhaps pitied.

After years of looking over his shoulder and hiding from shadows, Eichmann was balding, bent and nearly broken. In a sense, Eichmann wasn’t so much executed by Israeli authorities as simply put out of his misery.

Finally, as a footnote: After his execution on May 31, 1962 at a prison in Ramla, Israel, Eichmann was cremated in a specially designed furnace. His ashes were scattered at sea, beyond the territorial waters of Israel by an Israeli Navy Patrol boat, ensuring that no country would serve as his final resting place.

Editor’s note: “Hunting Eichmann” is available in eBook, paperback, hardback and audiobook formats at amazon.com, barnesandnoble.com and other major online book retailers.

MARCH 8 ▪ 2013

M

ention the Holocaust, and several names come quickly to mind. Adolf Hitler was at the top of the Nazi’s killing machine, opening the door to pure evil and madness that led to the mass murder of 6 million Jews.

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AJT

education

The College Essay: More Important than Ever Before COMMON APPLICATION PROMPTS CHANGE

by Dr. Mark L. Fisher AJT Contributor

T

here are 488 colleges that are part of the “Common Application,� a method that allows students to apply to multiple colleges in a simple fashion.

Using this method, the same application goes to any number of institutions. In many cases, applicants will provide more information on the Common Application than is called for on any one school’s application, but overall this tool makes the process easier.

Essay options on the Common Application had remained constant in recent years, but that policy is now changing. New prompts provided on the 2013 version are the culmination of two years of discussion aimed at making the options fair to a wide variety of students.

In general, essays are receiving more attention on college applica-

tions because writing is one of the few ways a student can let a college know who they are and how they express themselves. Grades are in black and white, extra-curricular activities offer only so much info and while recommendations are important, they are provided by counselors and teachers.

Remember: 650 words is your limit‌�

Essays – and sometimes interviews – help students “come alive.�

Let’s face it; the essay is what holds up any given student’s application.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, there is a minimum of 250 words needed in the essay. Write 249 words, and the essay will not be accepted; the submit button just won’t submit your essay.

This is reflected in the Common Application’s new instructions: “The essay demonstrates your ability to write clearly and concisely on a selected topic and helps you distinguish yourself in your own voice.

What do you want the readers of your application to know about you apart from courses, grades, and test scores?

Write an essay of no more than 650 words, using the prompt to inspire and structure your response.

In the past, an applicant could go over this limit by 50 to 100 words, and no one would notice. No more; the limit is now the limit, no exceptions. Students should not ask if 652 words are fine – it is not fine. The last two words wouldn’t even be read.

Some students will be bothered by the 650-word limit, while others will wonder how they will write 250 words. Hopefully, a student’s ability to write will come through clearly and creatively; the applicant should remember to be effective and concise and keep in mind colleges are trying to distinguish you from other applicants.

Of course, the new prompts don’t

The Davis Academy proudly presents

make getting started any easier, either. When you read the options below, you’ll understand why some students have difficulty choosing a topic: • “Some students have a background or story that is so central to their identity that they believe their application would be incomplete without it. If this sounds like you, then please share your story.â€? • “Recount an incident or time when you experienced failure. How did it affect you, and what lessons did you learn?â€? • “Reflect on a time when you challenged a belief or idea. What prompted you to act? Would you make the same decision again?â€? • “Describe a place or environment where you are perfectly content.

What do you do or experience there and why is it meaningful to you?â€? • “Discuss an accomplishment or event, formal or informal, that marked your transition from childhood to adulthood within your culture, community or family.â€?

Each of these prompts is designed to bring about an essay that gives the admissions office personnel an opportunity to glean who you are as a person beyond your grades, courses, scores and activities. What is unique about you? What motivates you?

Who are you? How do you operate?

Think about yourself. Then ask: Which of the prompts would be beneficial to tell your story? Never forget that colleges are looking for reasons to accept applicants, but that is something the student has to determine and know before the college can find out!

Finally: You may be asking yourself why this article is being published now, rather than in the fall. I know all too well that students procrastinate when it comes to the essay. Now, at the very least, you know the essay prompts on the Common Application and should be ready to start thinking about yourself and the topic that will fit you the best.

Sunday, March 17, 2013 – 1:00 and 7:00 p.m. *Monday, March 18, 2013 – 6:00 p.m.

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If you can’t think of anything, then brainstorm with others, including your parents. It’s better to deal with the subject now than a week before an application is due.

Editors’ note: Dr. Mark Fisher is a college and career consultant at Fisher Educational Consultants (fishereducationalconsultants.com) and the college counselor for Yeshiva Atlanta.

AJT

education

My First Prayer Book CMCH’s CHAGIGAT HASIDDUR From Chaya Mushka Children’s House For the Atlanta Jewish Times

F

irst-grade students at the Chaya Mushka Children’s House Jewish Montessori School received their first siddurs on Jan. 30.

PHOTOS/Chaya Mushka Children’s House

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Rabbi Isser New presented each child with his or her own prayer book with a custom cover that each student decorated. Family and friends filled the room and cameras snapped to capture this joyous occasion.

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AJT

education

Peter Pan’s Flying High in Hebrew EPSTEIN SCHOOL OFFERS TWIST ON CLASSIC

by SUZI BROZMAN

AJT Contributor

H

ebrew is critical for prayer and study, but the language is certainly not strictly for religious practices. Indeed, the Epstein School is proving that it is a living, breathing entity in our city.

This year, as in every year for the past d e cade, E p stein’s eighth graders are putting on a play entirely in the tongue of the Jewish State. “ W e would hope our eighth grade graduates are totally comfortable speaking Modern Hebrew, so it’s their responsibility to show this through putting on a musical,” Myrna Rubel, middle school principal, said. “There is no other Atlanta Jewish day school highlighting bilingual learning as we do. It has become the eighth grade’s parting production, and it’s an experience our students will always remember.”

MARCH 8 ▪ 2013

The play this year is “Peter Pan,” based on the Broadway production.

Epstein’s iteration should delight all audiences but is particularly wellsuited to families with small children (who relate well to lovable Peter, mischievous Tinkerbell and the rest of the cast) and transplanted Israelis (who can experience theater in their own language).

Like all Epstein performances in Hebrew, English narration between scenes will explain the action, making the show accessible for all. The school either rents translations of the works performed (if that show has been presented previously in Israel) or hires local translators while renting the script and paying for rights.

Mira Hirsch – a famous name in local theater productions – is the show’s director. While she is not fluent in Hebrew, she is using translations 24 and transliterations to help her keep

up with the players.

Hirsch started rehearsals in English, allowing the cast to get comfortable with staging and direction, before they moved into Hebrew.

“It’s

fluid,” she explained.

“They really know w h a t they’re saying and doi n g since they’ve gone

through it in English first. It helps connect them with the action.”

For its general Hebrew curriculum, Epstein follows the Bostonbased program “Hebrew at the Center,” which has also been adopted at the Weber School, Greenfield Hebrew Academy and Yeshiva Atlanta.

“Our success is based on using the proficiency approach in Hebrew,” Rubel said.

The school employs native Hebrew speakers as Judaics instructors, ensuring students learn vocabulary, idiom and accent properly.

Rubel explained that starting in elementary school, 50 percent of the instruction is conducted in Hebrew, and that rises to over 60 percent by middle school.

This approache has this year’s eight-grade class well prepared for their production of “Peter Pan” as well as the three-week trip to Israel which will follow in the spring, something the students are looking forward to with great anticipation.

Editor’s note: “Peter Pan” at Epstein School is set for Sun., March 17, at 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. in the Shana Glass Cafeteria; general seating is $10/ person. Purchase tickets at epsteinatlanta.org or call (404) 250-5600.

AJT

www.aplusinc.net Peyton Alexander 404-373-plus (7587) sales@aplusinc.net

education

Abby Flaxer to Star in “Hairspray” ALPHARETTA HIGH SENIOR TAKES LEAD ROLE

Gutters can be a headache if they are not installed correctly.

by HAGAR BARUCH

For the Atlanta Jewish Times

“I think the best part about being Tracy is that she’s so outgoing and she’s so passionate about what she does, and I can relate to that a lot,” Flaxer, now on her third musical at Alpharetta, said.

She is not new to central roles – having played leads in “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory” for Webb Bridge Middle School, in “Rent” for the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta and in “Edges,” also for the JCC – but this will be her first time taking the spotlight at AHS.

particular will be a hit. “[‘Hairspray’] is such a wellknown show that, most likely, more people will come,” Flaxer said.

Not only is Tracy a complicated character in personality, she is also a complicated character in appearance. As Abby must be made to appear overweight for her character, AHS’s drama department found some interesting costumes.

“I haven’t seen a lot of the Tracy costume, but I do know that they’re giving me a butt – like two giant pillows,” Flaxer said.

Also, with the ’60s style comes ’60s hairdos, and Abby is delighted about hers.

TOP: Abby Flaxer is “Tracy” in Alpharetta High’s production of “Hairspray.”

BOTTOM: Star Abby Flaxer rehearses for the upcoming production of “Hairspray”

“I’m not so nervous [about playing the lead], but more excited,” Flaxer said. “I think the nerves are going to hit when the curtain rises.”

Though she’s the key character, Abby doesn’t insist on being the center of attention.

“I’m most excited about all the choreography and all the big numbers,” she said. “There’s so many opportunities for people to shine, and I’m glad I get to share the spotlight.”

When it comes to the story of “Hairspray,” it’s all about acceptance. In dealing with Tracy’s struggle as an outcast and her fight for equal treatment, the show confronts many moral issues prominent among adolescents.

Other area schools, like Milton and Chattahoochee, have put on this classic – but Abby thinks this one in

“I’m excited,” she said, grinning.

“I’m going to have this giant bump that’s gonna be part of my wig and we’re gonna spray streaks in it so I’m excited about the hair.”

Abby is eager to see all the costumes and retro style that “Hairspray” has to offer, all the better to make the audience feel like they’re in Baltimore during the Civil Rights movement. Although the show mostly focuses about equality and fitting in, to Abby it has a different meaning.

a plus, inc. can install new gutters; repair old sagging gutters that have problems; clean gutters that are clogged up and have debris; or add new downspouts and splashguards to existing systems.

“Honey, they’re having fun over there!”

Don’t be shy.

See for yourself.

Come on over. take a look around. Make yourself comfortable.

Meet some residents. Join a conversation. Have some lunch (our treat, of course). What you’ll find is that the Renaissance on Peachtree is fun and energized. or is it energized and fun?

Whatever the case may be, it certainly isn’t ordinary. so, don’t be shy, call (404) 237-2323 now to schedule your tour. Next thing you know, you’ll be saying, “Honey, we should’ve moved in years ago!”

“[The show] is more than just civil rights,” Flaxer said. “I think it’s more about finding something that you’re really passionate about and not taking ‘no’ as your final answer.”

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Editor’s note: Buy tickets for “Hairspray” at Alpharetta High School (March 14-16 and 23) seatyourself. biz/alphaproductions.

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lpharetta High School (AHS) presents the musical “Hairspray” March 14 in the AHS auditorium. Senior Abby Flaxer stars as Tracy, a 1960s teen eager to sing and dance on her favorite TV show.

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Atlanta Synagogue Directory

Sponsored by:

CHABAD Chabad Intown 928 Ponce De Leon Avenue Atlanta, GA 30306 www.chabadintown.org 404.898.0434

Congregation Beth Shalom 5303 Winters Chapel Rd. Atlanta, GA 30360 www.bshalom.net 770.399.5300

Guardians of the Torah P.O. Box 767981 Roswell, GA 30076 www.guardiansofthetorah.org 770.286.3477

The Kehilla of Sandy Springs 5075 Roswell Rd. Sandy Springs, GA 30342 www.thekehilla.org 404.913.6131

Temple Beth Tikvah 9955 Coleman Rd. Roswell, GA 30075 www.bethtikvah.com 770.642.0434

Chabad Israel Center 5188 Roswell Rd. Sandy Springs, GA 30324 www.cicatlanta.com 404.252.9508

Congregation B’nai Torah 700 Mount Vernon Hwy. Atlanta, GA 30328 www.bnaitorah.org 404.257.0537

Young Israel of Toco Hills 2074 Lavista Rd. Atlanta, GA 30329 www.yith.org 404.315.1417

Temple Emanu-El 1580 Spalding Dr. Atlanta, GA 30350 www.templeemanuelatlanta.org 770.395.1340

Chabad Jewish Center 4255 Wade Green Rd. Suite 120 Kennesaw, GA 30144 www.jewishwestcobb.com 678.460.7702

Congregation Etz Chaim 1190 Indian Hills Pkwy Marietta, GA 30068 www.etzchaim.net 770.973.0137

Nediv Lev: the Free Synagogue of Atlanta 3791 Mill Creek Ct. Atlanta, GA 30341 My.att.net/p/PWP-NedivLev 770.335.2311 Shalom B’harim 150 Warwick Street Dahlonega, GA 30533 www.shalombharim.org 706.864.0801

Reconstructionist Congregation Bet Haverim 2676 Clairmont Rd. Atlanta, GA 30329 www.congregationbethaverim.org 404.315.6446

Temple Kehillat Chaim 1145 Green St. Roswell, GA 30075 www.kehillatchaim.org 770.641.8630

Orthodox

Reform

Anshi S’Fard Congregation 1324 North Highland Ave. Atlanta, GA 30306 www.anshisfard.com 404.874.4513

Congregation B’nai Israel 1633 Hwy 54 E Jonesboro, GA 30238 www.bnai-israel.net 678.817.7162

Congregation Ariel 5237 Tilly Mill Rd. Dunwoody, GA 30338 www.congariel.org 770.390.9071

Congregation Dor Tamid 11165 Parsons Rd. Johns Creek, GA 30097 www.dortamid.org 770.623.8860

Congregation Beth Jacob 1855 Lavista Rd. Atlanta, GA 30329 www.bethjacobatlanta.org 404.633.0551

Congregation Ner Tamid 176 West Sandtown Rd. Marietta, GA 30064 www.nertamidonline.com 678.264.8575

Congregation Beth Yitzhak 5054 Singleton Rd. Norcross, GA 30093 770.931.4567 Email: anatoliy@bjca.com

Congregation Rodeph Sholom 406 East 1st Street Rome, GA 30161 www.rodephsholomga.org (706) 291-6315

Congregation Ner Hamizrach 1858 Lavista Rd. Atlanta, GA 30329 www.nerhamizrach.org 404.315.9020

Temple Beth David 1885 Mcgee Rd. Snellville, GA 30078 www.gwinnetttemple.com 770.978.3916

Chabad of Cobb 4450 Lower Roswell Rd. Marietta, GA 30068 www.chabadofcobb.com 770.565.4412 Chabad of Gwinnett 3855 Holcomb Bridge Rd. Suite 770 Norcross, GA 30092 www.chabadofgwinnett.org 678.595.0196 Chabad of North Fulton 10180 Jones Bridge Rd. Alpharetta, GA 30022 www.chabadnf.org 770.410.9000 Congregation Beth Tefillah 5065 High Point Rd. Atlanta, GA 30342 www.chabadga.com 404.257.9306 Conservative

MARCH 8 ▪ 2013

Ahavath Achim Synagogue 600 Peachtree Battle Ave. Atlanta, GA 30327 www.aasynagogue.org 404.355.5222

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Congregation Gesher L’Torah 4320 Kimball Bridge Rd. Alpharetta, GA 30022 www.gltorah.org 770.777.4009 Congregation Or Hadash 6751 Roswell Rd. Atlanta, GA 30328 www.or-hadash.org 404.250.3338 Congregation Shearith Israel 1180 University Dr. Atlanta, GA 30306 www.shearithisrael.com 404.873.1743 Non-denominational Atlanta Chevre Minyan Druid Forest Clubhouse North Crossing Dr. Atlanta, GA 30305 www.atlantachevreminya.org Congregation Kehillat HaShem 315 Cotton Court Johns Creek, GA 30022 rabbiatlanta.com 770.218.8094 Congregation Shema Yisrael 6065 Roswell Rd., #3018 Atlanta, GA 30328 www.shemaweb.org 404.943.1100

Temple Kol Emeth 1415 Old Canton Rd. Marietta, GA 30062 www.kolemeth.net 770.973.3533 Temple Sinai 5645 Dupree Dr. Sandy Springs, GA 30327 www.templesinatlanta.org 404.252.3073 The Temple 1589 Peachtree St. NE Atlanta, GA 30309 www.the-temple.org 404.873.1731 SEPHARDIC Congregation Or VeShalom 1681 North Druid Hills Rd. Atlanta, GA 30319 www.orveshalom.org 404.633.1737 Traditional Congregation Shaarei Shamayim 1810 Briarcliff Rd. Atlanta, GA 30329 www.shaareishamayeim.com 404.417.0472

AJT

MATZAH BALL SOUP FOR THE SOUL

We Can’t All Be Rock Stars BUT WE STILL ROCK IN OUR OWN WAY

BY RACHEL LAVICTOIRE AJT Columnist

This week, I’m going to finish off this list with one last key to community. I’ll start with a simple fact: I can’t draw.

My friend Moya, on the other hand, is an incredible artist. I’ve watched her turn blank pages into detailed sketches, and to me, Point A and Point B are very clear, but the process is a blur.

Watching her sketch, I can see nothing but a series of accidental wonders. Moya wisps her charcoal in a line here and a curve there. She makes that one darker and smudges this one with the side of her finger.

She looks at her model, then back down at her page, and to her, it all fits. She sees the markings she has made as part of a completed image – an image I won’t be able to see until it’s completely drawn out in charcoal.

Now, another simple fact: I have

a lot of friends who can’t write. Normally, it’s the chemists and the engineers who struggle to spin phrases into synchronized thoughts, but I certainly wouldn’t say it’s only them; plenty of people “don’t get it.”

As a writer myself, I often get questions about my inspiration, my ability to birth characters onto a page and my flair for details. “I don’t know,” is really all I can respond.

“It just happens,” I say.

And that’s the truth. Just as we all have limitations – things we can’t do and will never be able to do – we also have gifts.

We’re raised to avoid bragging; we’re supposed to be humble and modest. Maybe that’s why you’re more likely to hear students compare their faults than their victories: “I’m so not ready for this test tomorrow,” says one.

“Actually, I haven’t opened my notes yet,” says another.

“Oh me either, but I mean…at least you go to class,” says the first.

Students tell you what they’ve procrastinated on, but not what they’ve finished; they’ll mention a psychology test they failed, but not

Shabbat Candle Lighting Times shabbat blessings Blessing for the Candles Baruch Arah A-do-nai,El-o-hei-nu Melech Haolam Asher Kid-shanu b’mitzvotav V’zivanu l’hadlik ner shel Shabbat Blessed are You, Eternal our God, Sovereign of time and space.

You hallow us with Your mitzvot and command us to kindle the lights of Shabbat.

Blessing for the Wine Baruch Atah A-do-nai, El-o-hei-nu Meelech Haolam, Borei p’ri hagafen Praise to You, Eternal our God, Sovereign of the Universe, Creator of the fruit of the vine.

Blessing for the Bread (Challah) Baruch Atah A-do-nai, El-o-hei-nu Melech haolam, Hamotzi Lechem min haaretz.

Our Praise to You Eternal our God, Sovereign of the universe, Who brings forth bread from the earth.

Friday, March 8, 2013 Light Candles at: 6:21 pm Shabbat, March 9, 2013 Shabbat Ends: 7:17 pm

Friday, March 15, 2013 Light Candles at: 7:27 pm Shabbat, March 16, 2013 Shabbat Ends: 8:23 pm Friday, March 22, 2013 Light Candles at: 7:32 pm Shabbat, March 23, 2013 Shabbat Ends: 8:28 pm Friday, March 29, 2013 Light Candles at: 7:38 pm Shabbat, March 30, 2013 Shabbat Ends: 8:34 pm

a math exam they passed. This pattern inhibits a key component to the success of a community: specialization.

This week, we read Parashat Vayakhel-Pekudei. In the past three weeks, we’ve read Terumah, Tetzaveh and Ki Tisa, the three-part instruction manual for the building of the Tabernacle; now, it’s time to build.

The portion starts with the collection of materials. Moses instructs the Israelites: “Take from yourselves an offering for the Lord; every generous hearted person shall bring it, the Lord’s offering: gold, silver and copper and blue, purple and crimson wool; and linen and goat hair... (Exodus 35: 5-6).”

Moses shuffles through the long list of materials. The Israelites are instructed to bring everything from ram skins and acacia wood to oil and spices. No one man is required to bring everything, but all are encouraged to bring something: “Every man with whom was found blue, purple or crimson wool; linen, goat hair, ram skins dyed red or tachash skins, brought them. Everyone who set aside an offering of silver or copper brought the offering for the Lord, and everyone with whom acacia wood was found for any work of the service, brought it. And every wise-hearted woman spun with their hands, and they brought spun material: blue, purple and crimson wool and linen (Exodus 35:23-25).”

People gave what was readily available to them, and as the supplies grew, Moses summoned two Israelites: Bezalel, of the tribe of Judah, and Oholiab, of the tribe of Dan. The two men had been chosen by G-d to build the Tabernacle.

Moses announced to the Israelites, “[G-d] imbued them with wisdom of the heart, to do all sorts of work of a craftsman and a master worker and an embroider with blue, purple and crimson wool and linen...

(Exodus 35:35).”

Together, Bezalel and Oholiab built the Tabernacle. By hand, the two of them sewed curtains, made golden clasps, built planks of aca-

cia wood and silver sockets for each board. They made an ark cover of pure gold as well as gold-plated poles for carrying the ark. They built tables, entryways, goblets, altars and a menorah.

When they were finished, they brought the Tabernacle to Moses.

On their completed work, the Torah reads, “in accordance with all that the Lord had commanded Moses, so did the children of Israel do all the work (Exodus 39:42).”

The children of Israel did the work. The text does not single out Bezalel and Oholiab as the carpenters of the Tabernacle; it was all the children of Israel who built it.

Those who could give wood brought wood; those who could give curtains brought curtains. Only two men could construct the Tabernacle, and so only two men did – but all the children of Israel contributed in their own way.

Each was proud to give a golden bracelet or a woven garment; proud to say, “This is what I can do, and I will do it.”

Often we get caught up in misfortunes and frustrations. We concentrate on the difficult: the exam, the presentation, the stack of bills or the page of unchecked “to-dos.”

What if instead – even if for only a minute, even if just to your dog – you bragged about yourself everyday?

“I have [insert project here], and I don’t feel like I can do it, but I should keep in mind [insert list of accomplishments and good qualities].”

Within a community, there are always some artists, some chemists; some chefs, some athletes. There are people with all sorts of different gifts.

In order to work together, we have to be comfortable saying, “Hey, I can’t give any acacia wood, but I’ve got some crimson wool we can use.”

Rachel LaVictoire (rlavictoire@wustl. edu) is a graduate of the Davis Academy and Westminster High School and currently attends Washington University at St. Louis.

MARCH 8 ▪ 2013

I

n recent weeks, I’ve spoken a great deal about the dynamics of a community – specifically, the dynamics of a community that’s working towards a goal. I’ve highlighted the beauty of a communal project, the importance of relinquishing control and the necessity of knowing your own limits.

27

AJT

MAY THEIR MEMORIES BE A BLESSING

Donald Harris Diamond

Philip T. Launer

Donald Harris Diamond, 81, native of Atlanta, passed away suddenly at his home on Feb. 25, 2013. Donald is survived by his wife, Sheri Diamond, and son Scott Diamond. He is predeceased by his son Bret Diamond. He is also survived by his sister and brother-in-law, Virginia and Milton Saul, and daughter-in-law Bethany Diamond Naylor. His stepchildren are Sandra and Robert Koff and Scott and Mindi Miller. He was blessed with five grandchildren – Benjamin and Brooke Diamond, Lauren Koff and Allison and Eric Miller – as well as a great-granddaughter, Sophie. Donald graduated from Emory University and owned and operated All American Package Stores.

He enjoyed a variety of sports, including fishing, tennis and basketball, as well as coaching basketball at the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta. He played bridge regularly and loved to travel with his wife. Donald was a long-time active member of Ahavath Achim Synagogue. He supported the arts by attending the symphony, theater and the cinema. Donald was a loving husband, father, brother, grandfather and great-grandfather. Sign online guestbook at edressler.com. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to: ProstAware, 850 Doe Hill Lane, Roswell, GA 30075, prostaware.org; or Ovarian Cancer Research Fund, Attention: Ovarian Cycle Atlanta, 14 Pennsylvania Plaza, Suite 1710, NY, NY 10122, ovariancycle.kintera.org/atlanta.

Graveside services were held at 2 p.m. on Wed., Feb. 27, 2013 at Arlington Memorial Park with Rabbi Neil Sandler officiating. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care.

Philip T. Launer passed away peacefully at age 94 on Wed., Feb. 27 at the William Breman Jewish Home in Atlanta. Phil was born Feb. 9, 1919 in the Bronx, N.Y., the son of Gussie and Harry Launer. He graduated from Stuyvesant High School in New York City and received his bachelor’s degree from City College, his master’s degree from Columbia University, and his Ph.D. in industrial psychology from New York University. During World War II, Major Launer served as a psychologist with Supreme Headquarters in London, where he met his future wife, Eleanor Annette Bandy, an Army nurse of Oshkosh, Wisc. They were married for 37 years before her death in 1983. After the war, Phil engaged in the practice of industrial psychology and served on the faculty of the City University of New York. In his free time, he was an avid reader, storyteller and dancer, and he loved traveling with his family throughout the Northeast. Well into his 80s, Phil was a spirited ballroom dancer and sought after as a wonderful dancing partner. He leaves behind his daughters, Caryl Lynn Launer of Massapequa Park, Long Island, N.Y. and Phyllis Kozarsky Arnovitz of Atlanta; a son-in-law, Eliot Arnovitz of Atlanta; and a grandson, Aaron Maxwell Kozarsky of Palm Desert, Calif.

Philip was proud of his military service and will be laid to rest at the Calverton National Cemetery in New York. The family deeply appreciates the loving care provided by the William Breman Jewish Home and The Weinstein Hospice, 3150 Howell Mill Road, NW, Atlanta, GA 30327, and asks that donations in Phil’s memory be directed there. Sign online guestbook: edressler. com. Funeral arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care.

81, OF ATLANTA

Harold Hersch

94, OF NEW YORK

MARCH 8 ▪ 2013

89, OF ATLANTA

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Harold Hersch, age 89, of Atlanta, passed away peacefully on Feb. 26, 2013 with his family at his side. He was born in Lodz, Poland to Rojza and Zalman Heisherick (Hejszerek), of blessed memory. He took his brother Szymon’s identity at age 16 to spare him from Nazism and was taken from the Lodz Ghetto to a work camp to help construct the Reichsautobahn. He was later taken to Auschwitz, where he survived the Lagischa, Jaworzno, Flossenburg and Natzweiler subcamps and ultimately liberated himself as the war was ending; he was the only survivor of the Heiscerick family. His testimony in 1988 helped send a former SS Nazi war criminal to prison for life, and he was later interviewed by Steven Spielberg’s film company. Following WWII, he lived for a few years in Konstanz, Germany, becoming a successful “black marketer.”

Not wanting to remain in Europe, Harold moved to Patterson, N.J. in 1949 and met the love of his life, Helen Lefkowitz, who would remain his devoted and doting wife for 60 years. After moving to Atlanta in the 1950s, he became a successful grocer in the African-American community. His customers included Harry Belafonte and Pearl Bailey. Owning and managing Hersch’s Supermarket gave him the opportunity to demonstrate his commitment to other people with a history of oppression. Harold was the first white business owner to hire black cashiers and sent them to train at the National Cash Register Company. He became friendly with future Civil Rights, political and business leaders in Atlanta, including Coretta and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.; Andrew Jackson; Andrew Young; Jesse Hill, Jr.; Rev. James Wilborn; Ira Jackson; Shirley Franklin; Jesse Jackson; Ira Jackson; Maynard Jackson; Judge Al Thompson; and Judge Clarence Cooper. Working quietly behind the scenes, he assisted the black community in many ways, such as lending bail money in the early days of the Civil Rights movement; helping to persuade the owner of Rich’s Department Store to desegregate; meeting with thenMayor Ivan Allen to argue for tearing down the Peyton Forest road barricade that discouraged African-Americans from moving into a white neighborhood; and donating groceries each Sunday to the neighboring Union Baptist Church for church lunches. Hersch’s Supermarket remained open during the race riots following Dr. King’s assassination because Harold trusted that the community would protect him and his store, and he was right; while other businesses were damaged, Hersch’s Supermarket remained untouched. Harold never expressed bitterness or hatred toward anyone and never dwelled on his past. He was a gentle and kind man who loved his family and this country unconditionally. Integrity meant everything to him, and he valued education highly. Harold, whose education was cut short due to the war, made it possible for his children to receive the education and opportunities denied to him. He was devoted to his wife; his children, Rochelle Hersch, Nica Tallman (Lee) and Steven Hersch (Diana); and grandchildren, Shelley, Alexandra, Jessica, Micaela, Giovi and Billy. Harold was a mensch in every sense of the word, a member of the Ahavath Achim Synagogue, and a founding member of Hemshech, a charitable organization of Atlanta’s Holocaust survivors. He will be greatly missed. Sign on-line guestbook at edressler.com.

Graveside services were conducted at Greenwood Cemetery on Fri., March 1, 2012 at 1 p.m. with Rabbi Yossi New of Congregation Beth Tefillah and Rabbi Laurence Rosenthal of Ahavath Achim Synagogue officiating. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Eternal Life Hemshech, 1440 Spring St., Atlanta, GA 30309. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care.

Joyce Simon

90, OF COLUMBUS, OHIO Joyce Simon, 90, of Columbus, Ohio, passed away peacefully on Thurs., Feb. 28, 2013. She was born and brought up in Bridgeport, Conn. on July 15, 1922, daughter of Julius and Ida Smith, of blessed memory. Joyce graduated from Ohio St. University in 1944. She moved to New York to pursue a career in retailing and became the handbag buyer at Bloomingdale’s before becoming the handbag buyer for the Macy’s Corporation. In 1954, she moved to Atlanta with her husband Bernie Simon and became very active in The Temple Sisterhood. Besides participating in most sisterhood programs and co-chairing the gift shop, she was treasurer for several years. In addition, she was an active member of B’nai Brith, as well as the National Council of Jewish Women, where she chaired the council thrift shop. Joyce also volunteered for years with the Atlanta Ballet, marketing their performances, and later became president of The Standard Club Ladies Golf Association and co-chaired the Entertainment Committee. Besides being a life member of the auxiliary of The William Breman Jewish Home, she volunteered in the Jewish Home office. Joyce helped Bernie develop their business, The Little Fawn Co. and Saas Glass, and actively worked there for many years. At the age of 76, she worked part-time in the marketing department of a local publishing company responsible for Where Magazine and Plan Your Meetings. After the death of her loving husband of 59 years in 2008, she moved to Columbus to be near part of her family. Joyce is survived by her daughters, Susan Silber (Harold) of Knoxville, Tenn. and Ronnie Perlstein (Alan) of Columbus, Ohio; grandchildren, Adam Silber of St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands, Lance Silber of Knoxville, Paige Perlstein of Columbus, Kenny Perlstein of New York City, and Michael Perlstein (Julie) – as well as their children, Dylan and Grant – of Washington, D.C. An online guestbook is available at edressler.com.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to The Temple, 1589 Peachtree St., Atlanta, GA 30309, the-temple.org; or Zusman Hospice, 1151 College Ave., Columbus, OH 43209. Graveside services were held at 2 p.m. on Fri., March 1, 2013 at Crest Lawn Memorial Park with Rabbi Fred Reeves officiating. Arrangements by Dressler’s Jewish Funeral Care.

what’s happening

Sat., March 9 Bloch’s Sacred Service, presented by the Georgia Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Maestro Michael Alexander, featuring Cantor Steven Weiss. Sat., March 9, 8 p.m. Bailey Center of Kennesaw State University. For tickets, call (770) 429-7016 or visit georgiasymphony.org.

Sun., March 10 Hunger Walk/Run, the Atlanta Community Food Bank’s annual walk/ run through downtown Atlanta.

Sun., March 10, 12 p.m. Turner Field. hwr2013.org.

“The Weight of The Nation” Discussion, based on HBO’s documentary series exploring America’s obesity epidemic and moderated by CNN’s Holly Firfer. Sun., March 10, 1 p.m. Ages 13 and up; free fitness class for children during viewing. MJCCA. RSVP via (678) 812-3727 or atlantaajcc.org.

“Whipping Man” performance, an afternoon at the theater with the Ketura Group of Greater Atlanta Hadassah. Sun., March 10, 2:30 p.m. $36/person. Alliance Theater, Hertz Stage. RSVP to sfparks@emory.edu.

“Legally Frum” performance, Yeshiva Atlanta Girls’ Committee presents a dinner and play for women. Sun., March 10, 6:30 p.m. (second performance on March 11). $12/students (advance), $15/students (door); $15/ adults (advance), $18/adults (door).

For tickets, call (404) 513-6764 or email chagiga2013@gmail.com.

“And Then They Came For Me,” ‘Remembering the World of Anne Frank,’ a Georgia Ensemble Theatre multimedia public performance; video and live actors. Sun., March 10, 7 p.m. Roswell Cultural Arts Center.

(770) 641-1260 or education@get.org.

Mon., March 11 “The Pursuit of Happiness” Lecture, explore why happiness is eluding us with guest speaker Rabbi Ari Sollish.

Part of the Chabad lecture series.

Mon., March 11, 8 p.m. Chabad Enrichment Center of Gwinnett. (678) 595-0196.

Tues., March 12 Ladies Lunch ‘n Learn. Tues., March 12, 12 p.m. Chabad Enrichment Center of Gwinnett. esther@chabadofgwinnett.org.

“Contemporary Wine, Food, Art” Dinner, wine sampling, art tour and food tasting featuring Sommelier Jeremy Iles and Eli Kirshtein of Top Chef.

Tues., March 12, 5:15 p.m. $50/Breman members, $75/non-members.

Private residence. For tickets, call

(678) 222-3758 or email rkatz@thebreman.org Thurs., March 14 AYJAN Meeting, Atlanta Young Jewish Attorneys Network’s first meeting of the year, discussing volunteerism and pro-bono work. Thurs., March 14, 6:30 p.m. Kilpatrick Townsend & Stockton LLP. Register via (678) 336-7238 or efisher@taylorenglish. com.

AJMF Jazz Night, with the Michael Feinberg Quintet and Jordan Dayan & Friends; part of the Atlanta Jewish Music Festival. Ages 18-plus.

Thurs., March 14, 7:30 p.m. $15/person. Steve’s Live Music. Tickets at ticketfly.com/event/216209.

Fri., March 15 Third Grade Shabbat Dinner, all CDT third graders and their families are invited to join the clergy for a chicken dinner. Fri., March 15, 6:30 p.m.

Congregation Dor Tamid. RSVP by March 13 to ali@rubenstein.net

AJMF Main Event Concert, with headliner Lisa Loeb; also includes Electra, Saul Kaye and DJ Mike Zarin. Sat., March 16, 7:30 p.m. $25/advance, $30/door. Tickets at ticketmaster. com/Lisa-Loeb-tickets/artist/766955.

Sun., March 17 CIC Matzah Bakery. Sun., March 17, 11 a.m. Chabad Israeli Center. cicatlanta.com/matza_bakery.

“Peter Pan,” a Hebrew musical production presented by Epstein School eighth graders. Sun., March 17, 11 a.m. & 4 p.m. $10/general seats, $20/ patron tickets. The Epstein School.

Tickets via epsteinatlanta.org/ events.

Miriam’s Seder, Sisterhood of CDT honors women who made an impact on society and Jewish history; dairy luncheon, open to all women age 11 and up. Sun., March 17, 1 p.m. $5/ person (prepaid), due March 10, sent by check. Congregation Dor Tamid.

Register by calling (404) 668-1135 or emailing sisterhood@dortmid.com.

Bearing Witness, “Unforgettable Stories From The Holocaust,” featuring speaker Benjamin Hiller. Sun., March 17, 2 p.m. The Breman Museum. (678) 222-3700.

Atlanta Community Symphony Orchestra Concert, program featuring winners of the Ruth Kern Young Artists Concertos Competition. Sun., March 17, 4 p.m. Donations welcome. Congregation Shearith Israel. For info, email yoyijacobson@gmail.com.

“The Little Mermaid,” presented by The Davis Academy. Sun., March 17 (second show on March 18). Davis Academy Middle School. Tickets via seatyourself.biz/davisacademy; contact dfrank@davisacademy.org.

Thurs., March 21 Coffee House speakers series with sweet treats and deep discussion.

Thurs., March 21, 7:30 p.m. $10/ members, $15/non-members. Registration required. MJCCA. (678) 8124079.

AJMF Shabbat Service, with musicians from Ahavath Achim Synagogue and Congregation Bet Haverim; part of the Atlanta Jewish Music Festival.

Fri., March 15, 7:30 p.m. Free, open to all ages. Ahavath Achim Synagogue. (404) 355-5222.

CSI Friday Night Live Shabbat Service, an evening of singing, desserts and drinking; members and non-members welcome. Fri., March 15, 7:30 p.m. Congregation Shearith Israel.

To get involved, email lynneborsuk@ bellsouth.net.

Sat., March 16 Jumpers and Catchers, skydiving event for jumpers and those who just want to watch; from AJS, partnering with the Break Your Fear Adventure Club. Sat., March 16, 10 a.m. meetup.com/Atlanta-Jewish-Singles/ events.

AJMF Family Program, with musicians Lisa Loeb and Michael Levine. Sat., March 16, 1:30 p.m. Free and open to public, all ages. Temple Sinai. (404) 252-3073. For tickets, call (404) 9820616 or email kheckler@ccfa.org.

23rd Annual Torch Gala, dinner, dance and auction fundraiser for the Georgia Chapter of the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation. Sat., March 16, 7 p.m. Ritz Carlton Buckhead. ccfa. org.

CDT Blackout Party, wear black, white or neon; for adults and young adults over age 11. Sat., March 16, 7 p.m. $5/member, $8/non-member. Congregation Dor Tamid Social Hall.

(770) 623-8860.

MARCH 8 ▪ 2013

AJT

29

JEWISH PUZZLER

by David Benkof

Across 1. Entree 7. Gorge 11. “___ Jews and other Stories” by Gerald Shapiro 14. Shekels 15. “___ Good Men” (1992 Rob Reiner film) 16. J Street’s Jeremy Ben-___ 17. Comedian who hit the Top 10 with “The Chanukah Song” 19. MIA Arad 20. Sides in an old battle 21. A very long period of time 22. Stereotypical Jewish dance 23. Talmudic tractate (and holiday) 26. Intl. commerce group 29. Electrician’s mantra?

30. City about 35 miles north of Haifa 31. ___, Azariah, and Mishael (book of Daniel names) 34. Belted, Biblically 38. “Genesis” victim 39. Aimée of the movies 42. Airline since 1948 43. Summer sedra 45. Old football play 47. Rats!

50. “Eek!” provoker 51. Antis 52. Leader worth $1.3 billion when he died in 2004 57. Kinda sorta 58. “Irrational exuberance” coiner Greenspan 59. Desire intensely

63. Reversing ___ (grammatical feature of Biblical Hebrew) 64. Nickname for Joseph Karo 66. Big guns in D.C.?

67. ___ Basra (Talmudic tractate) 68. “Jailhouse Rock” lyricist 69. After dark, poetically 70. Women’s Mizrachi Federation in America 71. Goof-offs

“Transformers” 25. Many mins.

26. “Batman” sound effect 27. Egyptian resort where Israeli and Palestinian negotiating teams met 28. Change for a five 32. Div. of the Yankees

33. ___ Hasharon (Israeli city) 35. ___-Sang-Ruby Union Institute 36. Bit of fast food 37. Antlered deer 40. Refined 41. It comes before Resh

Down 1. Latin 101 verb 2. ___ of Jewish law 3. Goad 4. “The Adding Machine” playwright Rice 5. Innovative stylist Vidal 6. “Quiet!”

7. Palmach commander Yitzchak 8. Like Noah’s ark 9. Itsy-bitsy 10. Airport alternative to JFK or LGA 11. “Les Miserables” star Sacha ___ Cohen 12. Talmudic voice 13. Daughter of Jacob 18. Hayim ___ Bialik 22. Migdal ___ (Northern Israeli city) 24. Actor LaBeouf of

44. Indignation 46. Fried alternative 48. Actress Kat (“The Vampire Diaries”) 49. “Kuzari” author Judah 52. “Give me ___ and its sages” (Yohanan Ben Zakkai) 53. “... with ___ bodkin”: Shak.

54. Shavuot month 55. ___ Gan 56. Snake path up Masada, e.g.

60. Philosemite Gregoire 61. Swerve off course 62. Makes a boo-boo 64. As yet unscheduled (abbr.)

65. 151 in old Rome

Last week’s answers

MARCH 8 ▪ 2013

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